Why is this medication prescribed?  

Moxifloxacin is in a class of drugs called fluoroquinolone antibiotics. It works by stopping the life cycle of bacteria. It is used to eliminate certain bacteria that cause infections in your lungs and sinuses. Antibiotics will not work for colds, flu, or other viral infections.

This medication is sometimes prescribed for other uses; ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information.

How should this medicine be used?  

Moxifloxacin comes as tablet to take by mouth. It is usually taken once a day for 5 to 10 days. Moxifloxacin tablets should be swallowed whole with a full glass of water. It can be taken with or without food.

Follow the directions on your prescription label carefully, and ask your doctor or pharmacist to explain any part you do not understand. Use moxifloxacin exactly as directed. Do not use more or less of it or use it more often than prescribed by your doctor.

Continue to take moxifloxacin even if you feel well. Do not stop taking moxifloxacin without talking to your doctor.

Other uses for this medicine  

Moxifloxacin is used occasionally to treat prostatitis, osteomyelitis, traveler's diarrhea, gonorrheal cervicitis or urethritis, pelvic inflammatory disease, sinusitis, otitis media, septic arthritis, bacterial meningitis, bacteremia, and endocarditis, and to prevent infection in urological surgery. Talk to your doctor about the possible risks of using this drug for your condition.

What storage conditions are needed for this medicine?  

Keep this medication in the container it came in, tightly closed, and out of reach of children. Store it at room temperature and away from excess heat and moisture (not in the bathroom). Throw away any medication that is outdated or no longer needed. Talk to your pharmacist about the proper disposal of your medication.

In case of emergency/overdose  

In case of overdose, call your local poison control center at 1-800-222-1222. If the victim has collapsed or is not breathing, call local emergency services at 911.

What other information should I know?  

Moxifloxacin has not been tested in children younger than 18 years of age, so keep the medication out of reach of children.

Keep all appointments with your doctor and the laboratory. Your doctor may order certain lab tests to check your response to moxifloxacin.

Do not let anyone else take your medication. Your prescription is probably not refillable. If you still have symptoms of infection after you finish the moxifloxacin, call your doctor.

Brand names